Obesity is a complex chronic disease that many people face. Chronic diseases, like obesity, require multiple treatment tools. However, it is important to remember that all weight loss treatment options like surgery and medicine are meant to work in conjunction with adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Based in Mt. Vernon, IL, Fariba Dayhim, MD, FACS, FASMBS, DABOM, CNS is an established and highly skilled surgeon with more than 15 years of experience in advanced minimally invasive, general, and bariatric surgery. Dr. Dayhim, board certified in obesity medicine and nutrition, provides insight into popular weight loss medications.
“Sometimes weight loss medications can be used in conjunction with surgery to treat obesity. Weight loss medicines can be used to help patients lose weight in preparation for surgery. In some cases, it can even help the small percentage of patients who may have a major weight relapse down the road to get back on track,” says Dr. Fariba Dayhim.
Studies that have been conducted on the safety and effectiveness of these weight loss drugs typically spanned a duration of six months to two years. There is not much data, presently, to inform us on the safety and effectiveness of these drugs in patients over time. Based on current data, we know these medications are relatively safe and effective for up to two years.
“Currently the most popular among patients are in a category of diabetic medicines such as Wegovy, Saxenda, and Ozempic. Interestingly enough, some of these popular medicines, like Ozempic, were created to mimic the hormonal and chemical changes observed in patients after weight loss surgery. As a provider who is familiar with both options, I still find bariatric surgery to be a miracle treatment for patients who are committed to adopting a healthy lifestyle,” says Fariba Dayhim, MD.
It is important for patients to fully understand all the risks and benefits associated with treatments they choose. Some of the risk associated with weight loss medications are minor. For example, patients may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Other, more aggressive risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, acute kidney injury, and even cancer in patients with certain family histories.
Your weight loss team at SSM Health is ready and waiting to help you on your weight loss journey. Our team approach offers customized paths for each patient during their weight loss journey. No matter what your health goals are, SSM Health Weight Management Services is dedicated to partnering with you to ensure the quality of life you seek.Take this quick health risk assessment and begin your journey to a healthier weight today.
